Built on the Lockheed Martin's A2100 AX platform, it will weigh approximately 4,500 kg at launch, and will be positioned at 132 degrees East. An Ariane 5 launch is scheduled around the end of 2005, from Europe's Spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana.

In 2003, Arianespace won eight contracts open for bidding during the year - representing more than 50 per cent of the market. As of 6 January, 2004, Arianespace's backlog stood at 33 satellites to be launched, says an official release.